Live Your Best Lives
Visit the vast lavender fields, which bloom beautifully from June to August. Take a walk through the garden's various sections, including flower beds, walking paths, and scenic viewpoints. You can also participate in lavender harvesting or make lavender-based products at the workshops available.
The Princess Jieyou Lavender Garden is located in Huocheng Town, Yili County, Xinjiang, nestled in the Yili River Valley at the northern foot of the Tianshan Mountains. Known as the "Hometown of Chinese Lavender," it is the world's third-largest lavender cultivation base and is often called the "Chinese Provence." March to September is the peak season for the garden, with June, when the lavender blooms at its peak, attracting large numbers of tourists. Visitors can purchase lavender essential oil and other souvenirs in the shopping district. Beyond the lavender garden lie dense forests and winding mountains. Although the vibrant purple of the lavender is absent, the warm light of dusk, casting a shadow over the garden, is still particularly captivating.
Temperate continental climate, June
long time
Peak season: RMB 35
Low season: RMB 17
Monday to Sunday, March 1st to September 30th
Peak season: 09:00-20:00 Last admission: 19:30
Monday to Sunday, October 1st - February 28th
Off-season: 10:00-19:00 Last admission: 18:30
Princess Jieyou's Lavender Garden was named after a historical legend tied to Princess Jieyou, who is said to have cultivated a garden of lavender. The garden is part of the rich agricultural traditions of Yili, which is known for its favorable climate and beautiful landscapes. The lavender garden symbolizes love, peace, and the natural beauty of Xinjiang.
Located in the Yili Valley of Xinjiang, the lavender garden is approximately 45 minutes by car from the city of Yili. Public transport options are limited, so taxis or private car rentals are the best way to reach the site. Walking is not recommended due to the distance from the city center.
The garden is open daily from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the lavender bloom season, which typically lasts from June to August, when the fields are at their most vibrant.
The entrance fee is approximately ¥30-¥50. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, but online purchasing options may be available through local tour operators during peak seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory, but it is recommended during the lavender blooming season (June-August) to ensure entry during peak times. Booking a tour may also be useful for a more organized experience.
You will need around 1 to 2 hours to fully explore the lavender garden, including taking photos, strolling through the fields, and visiting any additional flower-themed sections of the garden.
The must-see highlights include the expansive lavender fields, the various lavender-based products and workshops, and the scenic viewpoints overlooking the garden and surrounding landscapes. Don't miss the photo ops near the flower beds.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some English-speaking guides may also be available during the peak season. Audio guides are not currently provided.
The best viewpoints are at the higher points of the garden, where you can capture wide-angle shots of the blooming lavender fields. The rows of lavender in full bloom also offer perfect photo opportunities.
Start at the entrance, walk along the main paths through the lavender fields, and then visit the scenic viewpoints. If you're interested, you can end your tour at the workshops where lavender-based products are made and sold.
Night visits or light shows are not currently available at Princess Jieyou's Lavender Garden. The best experience is during daylight hours, especially when the flowers are at their peak bloom.
The garden can get crowded, especially during the lavender bloom season (June-August). To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning or on weekdays.
The garden has basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and small shops selling lavender products. You can also find a few stalls offering snacks and drinks, though it’s advisable to bring your own water.
The paths are generally flat and easy to walk, making the garden accessible for elderly and children. However, those with mobility impairments may find certain areas challenging due to the natural terrain.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used. Credit cards may not be widely accepted, so it’s better to use digital payment methods or carry cash.
There are no restaurants directly inside the lavender garden, but nearby areas in Yili offer traditional Uyghur cuisine, including kebabs, pilafs, and fresh dairy products. Local cafes may also offer light snacks and drinks.
Halal food is widely available in the area, as Yili is part of the Xinjiang region. Vegetarian options, such as vegetable stews, rice dishes, and salads, are also commonly found in nearby eateries.
There are a few hotels in Yili city, including the Yili Grand Hotel, which offers modern amenities and is about a 45-minute drive from the garden. Guesthouses and boutique hotels are also available in the area.
Nearby attractions include the Kanas Lake, Ili River, and Yili Grand Canyon, all of which can be visited as part of a day trip to the region. These natural sites offer stunning landscapes and opportunities for outdoor activities.
Souvenir shops in the garden sell lavender-based products such as essential oils, sachets, soaps, and dried lavender. Local crafts, textiles, and spices are also common souvenirs in the area.
After visiting the lavender garden, taxis or private cars are the best options to continue your journey. Public transportation may be limited, but taxis from the garden to Yili city or other nearby attractions are readily available.
